Bolgatanga: Mr Alfred Nyantakyi, the Upper East Regional Director of the Pharmacy Council of Ghana, emphasized that possessing a pharmacy or Over-The-Counter (OTC) medicine license does not exempt operators from adhering to the laws of Ghana. He clarified misconceptions held by some license holders who believe that such licenses protect them from national regulatory guidelines and laws.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Nyantakyi addressed these concerns during a workshop organized by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for pharmacy and OTC medicine sellers. He highlighted that these licenses do not prevent authorized officers from inspecting premises to ensure compliance with the law. He stated, "Some of you think that once you get the license, it is only Pharmacy Council that can come to your facility to inspect. But if you read the law, it says an authorized officer can enter your premises at any reasonable hour to inspect."
Mr Nyantakyi further clarified that a Pharmacy Council license does not provide immunity from scrutiny by the FDA, the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA), or the Police. He warned operators against using their licenses to conduct illegal activities such as performing abortions or selling narcotic drugs, emphasizing that regulatory and law enforcement agencies would take action against violators.
He reiterated that while the Pharmacy Council oversees pharmacy practice, it is not the sole authority responsible for inspections, and other agencies have the right to conduct checks if illegal activities are suspected. Mr Nyantakyi expressed concern over operators who treat clients in unauthorized facilities and highlighted the Council's commitment to addressing such practices.
Mr Nyantakyi noted the evolving tactics of practitioners who avoid detection by operating in locations not registered with the Council. He urged the public to report any suspicious activities to help the Council track illegal practices. He also advised consumers to purchase medicines only from licensed establishments to ensure traceability and safety.
The Director underscored the Council's mandate to uphold the highest standards of pharmacy practice in the public interest and discouraged interference on behalf of operators who break the law.
